Residents of Westboro Drive in Nashville are set to benefit from a new traffic calming initiative aimed at reducing vehicle speeds and enhancing safety in their neighborhood. During a recent meeting held by the Nashville Department of Transportation (NDOT), officials outlined the details of the traffic calming program, which has been designed to address concerns raised by local residents regarding speeding and safety on their streets.

The traffic calming program specifically targets residential streets, employing physical measures to encourage drivers to slow down. NDOT officials emphasized the importance of speed reduction, citing data that shows a pedestrian's chance of survival dramatically decreases as vehicle speeds increase. For instance, at 25 miles per hour, a pedestrian has an 89% chance of survival, while that figure drops to just 35% at 45 miles per hour.

Westboro Drive was selected for the program after being one of 25 streets chosen from over 600 applications. The selection process was data-driven, taking into account factors such as vehicle speed, traffic volume, and the presence of pedestrian accommodations. On Westboro Drive, the 85th percentile speed was recorded at 33 miles per hour, exceeding the posted speed limit of 30 miles per hour. The street also sees approximately 3,500 vehicles daily and lacks sidewalks, which contributed to its prioritization for traffic calming measures.

The meeting provided an opportunity for residents to discuss their experiences and share their thoughts on potential solutions. NDOT officials presented a preliminary design concept for the street, inviting feedback from the community to refine the approach. The program aims to not only improve safety but also enhance the overall quality of life for residents by fostering a more pedestrian-friendly environment.

In addition to the traffic calming initiative, NDOT highlighted the importance of community engagement through resources like the Hub, which allows residents to report various issues, from street maintenance to safety concerns. As the project moves forward, residents of Westboro Drive can look forward to a safer and more accessible neighborhood, reflecting the city's commitment to addressing community needs.